Speaking Strategy
The speaking paper is a live conversation with one or more examiners. They mark task completion, range, control and pronunciation. Preparation and calm technique can lift your mark as much as your level.
Format by level
Your centre's convocation gives the actual times. Preparation time, when given, is for planning and note-taking.
A1
PartsDirected interview, information exchange, role-play
PreparationShort, for the last two
FocusFamiliar words, simple sentences, polite exchanges
A2
PartsDirected interview, information exchange, role-play
PreparationShort, for the last two
FocusEveryday transactions, describing your life
B1
PartsDirected interview, interaction, point of view from a document
PreparationFor the point of view
FocusJustify an opinion, handle a problem in a role-play
B2
PartsExposé from a short text, then debate
PreparationYes, a substantial period
FocusStructured argument, defending your position
C1
PartsExposé from a dossier, then discussion
PreparationYes, long
FocusSynthesise documents, build a plan, argue flexibly
C2
PartsMonologue on a listening document, then debate
PreparationYes, long
FocusMastery, nuance, spontaneity
What examiners want to hear
They aren't testing your opinions. They test your French.
| Criterion | How to score |
| Task | Answer the actual question and fill the time |
| Structure | Announce your plan and use transitions |
| Interaction | Listen, react, ask for clarification, keep the conversation moving |
| Vocabulary | Use topic words, and rephrase when you lack one |
| Grammar | Clean basics, then some complex structures |
| Pronunciation | Clear rather than perfect: rhythm, liaison, final vowels |
| Fluency | Steady pace, short pauses are fine |
Openings at the examiner's table
Start with a greeting and use vous. It's polite and sets a good tone. Ask your examiner if unclear.
- Bonjour madame, bonjour monsieur.Hello, madam; hello, sir.
- Excusez-moi, pourriez-vous répéter, s'il vous plaît ?Sorry, could you repeat that, please?
- Je voudrais d'abord présenter le document.First I'd like to present the document.
Stalling and repairing
Silence is the main problem, not mistakes. Memorise a few fillers and repairs. When you don't know a word, describe it: c'est une chose qui sert à...
Need time
FrenchC'est une bonne question, laissez-moi réfléchir.
EnglishGood question, let me think.
Need time
FrenchComment dire...
EnglishHow can I put it...
Unknown word
FrenchJe ne connais pas le mot exact, mais c'est une sorte de...
EnglishI don't know the exact word, but it's a kind of...
Self-correct
FrenchPardon, je voulais dire...
EnglishSorry, I meant...
Rephrase
FrenchAutrement dit...
EnglishIn other words...
Didn't understand
FrenchJe n'ai pas bien compris la question. Pouvez-vous la reformuler ?
EnglishI didn't quite understand. Could you rephrase?
Check meaning
FrenchSi je comprends bien, vous voulez dire que... ?
EnglishIf I understand correctly, you mean that...?
Giving an opinion and defending it
From B1, an opinion alone isn't enough. Use the pattern: point, reason, example, return.
- À mon avis, ce projet est utile, parce qu'il aide les jeunes.In my opinion, this project is useful because it helps young people.
- Par exemple, dans ma ville, il existe un programme similaire.For example, in my town, there's a similar programme.
- C'est pourquoi je pense que cette idée mérite d'être soutenue.That's why I think this idea deserves support.
Role-play tips, at A1 to B1
The examiner plays a part. Stay in the situation. Use the right polite forms, ask questions, respond to problems, and close properly.
| Function | French |
| Polite request | Je voudrais..., Est-ce que je pourrais... ? |
| Asking about a price | Combien ça coûte ? |
| Solving a problem | Est-ce qu'il y a une autre solution ? |
| Complaining politely | Je suis désolé, mais il y a un problème avec... |
| Accepting, declining | Volontiers. Non merci, c'est gentil. |
| Ending | Merci beaucoup, au revoir et bonne journée. |
Preparation time
Don't write out a full speech. You'll read it, which can cost you marks. Write only a plan: an introduction sentence, two or three headings with key words, an example per heading, then the conclusion. Rehearse the first sentence in your head. It reduces nerves. See the expose-structure sheet.
Discussion
Listen to the examiner's whole question. They may challenge your position on purpose: that's not a sign of disagreement but of testing. Defend, nuance or concede. See debate-moves.
If they push back, don't give up your view at once. Add a reason or a limit. Long answers score better than one-word replies.
Pronunciation priorities
Focus on what affects clarity.
1. Vowels: u and ou, and the nasals, change meaning. 2. Endings: don't sound silent letters. 3. Rhythm: stress the end of groups, not each word. 4. Liaison: make the required ones. 5. Don't rush. A steady pace is clearer and shows control.
Training plan
1. Speak out loud daily, even for a few minutes. Describe your day or a news item. 2. Record, then listen for two faults only. 3. Practise role-plays and exposés with the AI examiner in Lingo Pal. 4. Time your exposés to the times given by your centre. 5. Learn set phrases until they are automatic: see debate-moves and expose-structure. 6. Have a go in front of someone: nerves fade with practice.